Neighbors working together to preserve our neighborhoods and beyond.
Filter Blog Posts
MBTA Communities Act Myths & Facts
On Thursday, April 11, 2024, residents of Shrewsbury gathered for an open forum to explore the myths, facts, and misconceptions about the MBTA Communities Act, with a specific focus on how it affects Shrewsbury and the 176 other communities in Massachusetts. Millbury, facing parallel challenges, emphasizes the importance of making decisions rooted in informed understanding rather than relying on state leaders' propaganda. It's crucial to note that the deadline for compliance is December 31, 2024.
Millbury Residents Intervene In MBTA Communities Act Lawsuit
Discover how the Millbury Neighborhoods for Responsible Growth, led by Steve Stearns, is taking action in a pivotal zoning dispute. Learn about their concerns regarding the MBTA Communities Act and its impact on Millbury's housing and resources. Millbury joins other communities in contesting §3A's application, safeguarding community well-being amidst legal proceedings that could shape its future.
Housing Mandates Uses California As Template
Discover Governor Maura Healey's vision for Massachusetts' housing future, echoing California's innovative model. She spotlights initiatives like the Affordable Homes Act and credits Governor Charlie Baker's groundwork, notably the MBTA Communities Act. The video "Housing Mandates In California" offers an insightful critique, exposing how this model fails, leading to statewide housing challenges. The looming state legislation aims at streamlining zoning for developers, shaping the landscape. Despite its length, the video is indispensable, offering a critical view of what's at stake. Without citizen involvement, the outlook is grim: rising costs, congested roads, and the erosion of homeownership dreams. Take action now to steer towards a brighter future.
Unpacking Urban Affordability: Reimagining Land Markets For Inclusive Housing
Patrick Condon’s research, spanning North America, particularly highlights Vancouver’s experience. Despite significant density increases, housing affordability in the city has not improved. Instead, rising land values have made housing increasingly unattainable for average earners. Patrick Condon identifies the root of the problem as not housing prices themselves but the escalating value of urban land, a phenomenon observed not just in Vancouver but across the globe.
Milton Rejects MBTA Communities Act
State officials are apprehensive that the Milton vote might embolden other communities to entertain the idea of non-compliance with the MBTA Communities Act, posing a significant setback to Governor Healey’s efforts to expand affordable housing. Numerous municipal officials are closely monitoring Milton's "no" vote to gauge the state's resolve in enforcing the new legislation.
MBTA Inclusionary Zoning Area Disclosed
The MBTA Inclusionary Zoning might be inconsequential, either way, considering that the defined area is fully developed. Furthermore, the process of acquiring developed properties, demolishing them, and constructing densely populated housing units demands substantial capital. Up to this point, no major corporate investor has shown interest in pursuing any such endeavors in Millbury. The transition from the current state to achieving 15 dwelling units per acre is improbable to happen overnight.